Apply for Universal Credit
We can not give you Universal Credit. You need to apply for it through the Gov.uk website.
Changes from tax credits to Universal Credit
If you live in County Durham and receive Working Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit, you will receive a Managed Migration Notice from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) from July 2023 onwards. The letter will tell you that your Tax Credits will end and that you need to claim Universal Credit.
You can carry on receiving Tax Credits as normal (including your annual renewal) until you receive this letter. The letter will give a deadline date giving you at least 3 months - you are not automatically transferred onto Universal Credit. If you need a time extension because of your personal circumstances or to arrange some advice, you can phone the telephone number on the letter to request more time.
If the amount of Universal Credit would be less than your Tax Credits you can get a top-up which means you are not worse off at the point of transfer.
If you get Tax Credits and have savings over £16,000, you should still apply for Universal Credit if you get a Managed Migration Notice because your savings over £16,000 will be ignored for 12 months.
If you need further advice about a Universal Credit Managed Migration Notice contact Welfare Rights 03000 268968 or for help making a claim contact Citizens Advice Help to Claim 0800 144 8444.
Apply for Universal Credit online (Gov.uk).
We can offer help to claim Universal Credit, whether it's to use a computer, or with your application.
Before you make your claim, you should have the following information:
- your (and your partner's) National Insurance number
- your postcode
- your landlord's name and address
- your eligible rent if you are living in social housing - this can be different from your full rent (make sure to check with your landlord so you get paid the right amount of Universal Credit)
- details of any children / relatives / friends who live with you - including their name, date of birth, age and income
- account details of where you want your Universal Credit to be paid - account number and sort code
- details of any savings
- if working - your expected monthly wage
- details of any other income you receive
- your own email address and mobile phone number
